Oven Baked Whole Yellowtail Snapper | Moist, Flavorful & Easy

Introduction

Looking for a restaurant-quality seafood dish you can make at home? This Oven Baked Whole Yellowtail Snapper recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Baked to perfection with fresh herbs, lemon, and a hint of garlic, this fish stays moist and tender while developing a golden, slightly crispy skin.

Whole baked fish not only looks impressive on the table but also delivers a rich, delicate flavor that fillets just can’t match. It’s healthier, easy to prep, and packed with protein and omega-3s.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 whole yellowtail snapper (2–3 lbs), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme or fresh sprigs
• Optional garnish: extra lemon wedges, fresh herbs

✨ Substitutions & Tips:

• Substitute with red snapper, sea bass, or branzino if yellowtail isn’t available.
• Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor; dried herbs work in a pinch.
• Drizzle with a little white wine for added depth and aroma.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Fish

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Make 2–3 diagonal slits on each side to allow seasoning to penetrate and cook evenly.

Step 2: Season the Fish

Rub olive oil all over the fish, inside and out. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme evenly. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, minced garlic, and half of the parsley.

Step 3: Bake the Fish

Place the snapper on a lightly greased baking sheet or ovenproof dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with remaining parsley and extra lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on the fish during the last 5 minutes to prevent overcooking. Overbaked fish can become dry.

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Nutrition (per serving, 1/4 fish)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

This dish is high in protein, low in carbs, and rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

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Healthier Alternatives

• Use a low-sodium seasoning blend to reduce sodium intake.
• Add sliced vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes) around the fish while baking for a complete one-pan meal.
• Drizzle with a light lemon vinaigrette instead of olive oil for fewer calories.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted potatoes or steamed rice for a full meal.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or sautéed vegetables.
• Drizzle with a simple garlic butter or herb sauce for extra flavor.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up delicious juices.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the slits: Fish may cook unevenly; slits help heat penetrate.
• Overbaking: Watch the time — yellowtail cooks quickly and dries out if left too long.
• Underseasoning: Whole fish requires seasoning inside and out for balanced flavor.
• Not patting dry: Moisture on the skin prevents it from crisping.

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Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving — it can make the fish rubbery.
• Freezer: Not recommended for cooked whole fish — texture may suffer.

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Conclusion

This Oven Baked Whole Yellowtail Snapper is simple, flavorful, and perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. With fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic, it’s moist, tender, and irresistibly aromatic. Try it tonight and impress your family with a healthy, restaurant-quality meal!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen yellowtail snapper?
Yes! Thaw completely in the fridge before baking.

Q2: How do I know when it’s done?
The flesh should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q3: Can I bake smaller fish the same way?
Yes, adjust cooking time to 15–20 minutes for 1–1.5 lb fish.

Q4: Can I grill this fish instead?
Absolutely! Use the same seasoning and grill over medium heat, about 6–8 minutes per side.

Q5: Can I stuff it with other flavors?
Yes! Fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, or even slices of fennel or onions work beautifully.